Leandros observed Caspian's condition with complete detachment. The Council member's usefulness was beginning to diminish. His fear was becoming visible. His unreliability was becoming apparent.
By the end of the tournament, Caspian would likely be removed from the Council. Not through dramatic action. But through the simple mechanism of being replaced by someone more competent.
"The lower seeds are demonstrating unexpected capability," Leandros said quietly, his voice pitched for only Caspian to hear. "Rhys is becoming more of a problem than ever before."
Caspian said nothing. His jaw was clenched too tightly to form words.
---
In the viewing section, Anya, Bastian, Lucan, and Drakka watched Cyrus exit the arena after his victory over Byron.
"Seed #14 defeated Seed #3," Lucan observed quietly. "The elite are crumbling. Every assumption about power hierarchy is being challenged."
